Economic Minister Mohamed Saeed has stated that fruit and vegetable prices in the Maldives market are expected to decrease from October 15.
State Trading Organization (STO) is preparing to import and sell 23 food items, including fruits and vegetables, to stabilize prices.
At a press conference, Minister Saeed and STO Managing Director Shimad Ibrahim provided details of the plan. Minister Saeed said, "October 15 is the date by which STO has to ensure these 23 food varieties are available in the Maldives at low prices. That is the target." He added that if the price of any of the listed items increases before that date, STO will intervene and bring in stock.
Shimad explained that STO had previously imported products during Ramadan to control prices, storing them under temporary arrangements. He said permanent facilities are now in place to import, store, and distribute the goods. "We have now set up two modern warehouses at the Industrial Village, near where the bridge is being constructed," he noted.
The government initiative aims to reduce pressure on retail markets by expanding import volumes of essential fresh produce and ensuring a continuous supply.
Source: The Edition